Can chipped bonding be repaired?

Using bonded composite can be a durable way to restore a tooth, however if the bonding is placed near the incisal edge of a tooth it can chip or crack. This chipping can mar the esthetics of a restoration and at that point a dentist has the option of replacing the entire restoration or just repairing the chipped portion.

When the pre-existing filling is in good shape, but is marred by the missing portion, a repair often is the most affordable and easy solution. Although additions to pre-existing composites may not have the same bond strength as an initial placement, they can provide a durable solution when properly performed.

As is true for all bonding procedures, cleanliness and good moisture control a extremely important to the long term success of composite restoration. Also care should be taken by a dentist to check for anterior excursions that the patient may make. The repair should not be unduly stressed during the mouths lateral and protrusive excursions. Often the reason the initial composite chipped was due to a stress placed on it during these excursions. If the subsequent repair is to be successful often a slight bite adjustment is recommended.